What is the typical age range for iliac crest fusion in females?

The iliac crest fusion in females typically occurs in the age range of 17 to 19 years. This process is a crucial aspect of skeletal maturity and is indicative of the completion of growth in the pelvis.

In females, skeletal maturation generally occurs earlier than in males due to the differences in hormone levels and growth patterns. The fusion of the iliac crest is an important milestone in development, as it signifies that the bones have reached an adequate level of maturity and growth is nearing completion. This is also relevant in forensic medicine, as it can help determine the age of an individual in legal contexts.

The other age ranges provided do not align with the established developmental timeline; for instance, fusion occurring too early (like in the 12-15 years range) does not accurately reflect typical growth patterns. Similarly, ranges that extend beyond 19 years are also less common for females, who usually complete the fusion process a bit earlier than that age bracket.